Delphine

''Delphine'' is the first novel by Madame de Staël, published in 1802, written in epistolary form. The narrative follows Delphine d'Albémar as she navigates the constraints of women's freedom in a patriarchal society, particularly focusing on her passionate yet complicated love for a married man, Léonce. The novel addresses themes of love, autonomy, and societal expectations, and was controversial enough to lead to Staël's exile by Napoleon. Influenced by contemporary literary figures, it reflects on the moral dilemmas faced by women in the 18th century.